Aeromedical Factors

Although the regulations are quite specific, it is a good idea Some of the most commonly used OTC drugs, antihistamines to be more conservative than the regulations. and decongestants, have the potential to cause noticeable adverse side effects, including drowsiness and cognitive Drugs deficits. The symptoms associated with common The Federal Aviation Regulations include no specific upper respiratory infections, including the common references to medication usage. Two regulations, though, cold, often suppress a pilot’s desire to fly, and treating are important to keep in mind. Title 14 of the CFR part 61, symptoms with a drug that causes adverse side effects section 61.53 prohibits acting as pilot-in-command or in any only compounds the problem. Particularly, other capacity as a required pilot flight crewmember, while medications containing diphenhydramine (e.g., that person: Benadryl) are known to cause drowsiness and have a prolonged half-life, meaning the drugs stay in one’s system 1. Knows or has reason to know of any medical condition for an extended time, which lengthens the time that side that would make the person unable to meet the effects are present. requirement for the medical certificate necessary for the pilot operation, or Many medications, such as tranquilizers, sedatives, strong 2. Is taking medication or receiving other treatment for pain relievers, and cough suppressants, have primary a medical condition that results in the person being effects that may impair judgment, memory, alertness, unable to meet the requirements for the medical coordination, vision, and the ability to make calculations. certificate necessary for the pilot operation. [Figure 17-9] Others, such as antihistamines, blood pressure drugs, muscle relaxants, and agents to control diarrhea and Further, 14 CFR part 91, section 91.17 prohibits the use motion sickness, have side effects that may impair the same of any drug that affects the person’s faculties in any way critical functions. Any medication that depresses the nervous contrary to safety. system, such as a sedative, tranquilizer, or antihistamine, can make a pilot more susceptible to hypoxia. There are several thousand medications currently approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), not Painkillers are grouped into two broad categories: analgesics including OTC (over the counter) drugs. Virtually all and anesthetics. Analgesics are drugs that reduce pain, medications have the potential for adverse side effects in while anesthetics are drugs that deaden pain or cause loss some people. Additionally, herbal and dietary supplements, of consciousness. sport and energy boosters, and some other “natural” products are derived from substances often found in medications that Over-the-counter analgesics, such as acetylsalicylic could also have adverse side effects. While some individuals acid (aspirin), acetaminophen (Tylenol), and ibuprofen experience no side effects with a particular drug or product, (Advil), have few side effects when taken in the others may be noticeably affected. The FAA regularly correct dosage. Although some people are allergic to certain reviews FDA and other data to assure that medications found analgesics or may suffer from stomach irritation, flying acceptable for aviation duties do not pose an adverse safety usually is not restricted when taking these drugs. However, risk. Drugs that cause no apparent side effects on the ground flying is almost always precluded while using prescription can create serious problems at even relatively low altitudes. analgesics, such as drugs containing propoxyphene (e.g., Even at typical general aviation altitudes, the changes in Darvon), oxycodone (e.g., Percodan), meperidine (e.g., concentrations of atmospheric gases in the blood can enhance Demerol), and codeine, since these drugs are known to the effects of seemingly innocuous drugs that can result in cause side effects, such as mental confusion, dizziness, impaired judgment, decision-making, and performance. In headaches, nausea, and vision problems. addition, fatigue, stress, dehydration, and inadequate nutrition can increase an airman’s susceptibility to adverse effects from Anesthetic drugs are commonly used for dental and surgical various drugs, even if they appeared to tolerate them in the procedures. Most local anesthetics used for minor dental and past. If multiple medications are being taken at the same time, outpatient procedures wear off within a relatively short period the adverse effects can be even more pronounced. of time. The anesthetic itself may not limit flying as much as the actual procedure and subsequent pain. Another important consideration is that the medical condition for which a medication is prescribed may itself be There is evidence taking illicit drugs significantly elevates disqualifying. The FAA will consider the condition in the the risk of having an aviation accident. Even though the context of risk for medical incapacitation, and the medication Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) defines as well for cognitive impairment, and either or both could be marijuana as a Schedule I drug on its controlled substances found unacceptable for medical certification. list, states have taken steps to allow the possession, sale, 17-16